Elements Naturals: World's First Fully Compostable Diapers

If diaper recycling isn't happening in a neighborhood near you, here's the next best thing for parents who want the convenience of disposables: 100% compostable diapers.

Oregon-based Elements Naturals will soon introduce the world's first fully compostable diaper. The plant-based diaper is hypoallergenic, chlorine- and fragrance-free, with repositionable paper tabs and an absorbent core that's made from wood pulp encased in a waterproof, plant-derived starch known as Ingeo.

The diaper can break down completely in 90 days and even its packaging is made from a compostable, plant-based starch. It's recommended that only diapers with urine be composted; diapers with solid waste should still be tossed in the trash, but the biodegradable materials will have a lesser impact than most products on the market.

Elements Naturals diapers are already available in Europe. This summer, they will debut in the U.S. on the company's website and through natural supermarket chains such as Whole Foods.